Bakersfield Money Laundering Attorney

Accused of Money Laundering in Bakersfield, CA?

If you are under investigation or have been charged with money laundering in Bakersfield, CA, you need aggressive and knowledgeable legal defense on your side. At Humphrey & Thompson, our experienced Bakersfield money laundering lawyers understand the complex financial and criminal aspects of these charges and are prepared to defend your rights every step of the way.

Whether the allegations involve state or federal authorities, facing a money laundering charge can have devastating personal, professional, and legal consequences. Don’t wait to get the defense you deserve.

Call or fill out our online contact form today to schedule a confidential consultation with our Bakersfield money laundering attorneys

What is Money Laundering?

Money laundering is the process of concealing the origins of illegally obtained money, typically by transferring it through a complex sequence of banking transfers or commercial transactions. The ultimate goal is to make the money appear legitimate, or “clean.”

In California, money laundering laws apply both to:

• Proceeds from criminal activity, such as drug trafficking, fraud, or theft, and
• Structuring transactions to avoid financial reporting requirements (commonly referred to as “bank fraud”).

The following are two primary statutes under California law that address money laundering:

• Penal Code §186.10 (financial transaction-based laundering)
• Health & Safety Code §11370.9 (drug-related money laundering)

Additionally, federal laws—such as those under 18 U.S.C. §§1956 and 1957—also address various forms of money laundering with broader jurisdiction and more severe penalties.

California Money Laundering Penalties

Under California Penal Code §186.10, a person who engages in transactions involving more than $5,000 within a seven-day period or $25,000 within a 30-day period with the intent to disguise the source or ownership of the funds can be prosecuted for money laundering.

Penalties include:

• Felony or misdemeanor charges, depending on the amount laundered and the defendant’s criminal history
• Fines of up to $250,000 or twice the amount laundered, whichever is greater
• County jail or state prison time ranging from 16 months to 4 years
• Enhanced sentencing if the amount laundered exceeds certain thresholds (e.g., over $50,000)
• If drugs are involved, charges under Health & Safety Code §11370.9 may apply, which also carries heavy fines and prison time.

A conviction can also result in asset forfeiture, mandatory restitution, and permanent damage to your financial and professional reputation.

Federal Money Laundering Penalties

Federal authorities often prosecute larger-scale money laundering operations involving interstate commerce, international transfers, or organized crime.

Under 18 U.S.C. §1956, the federal crime of money laundering includes:

• Transacting with proceeds of specified unlawful activity
• Intent to promote illegal activity or disguise the source or ownership of funds

Penalties under federal law are significantly more severe:

• Up to 20 years in federal prison per count
• Fines up to $500,000 or twice the value of the laundered funds
• Seizure and forfeiture of assets

Because federal investigations are typically handled by the FBI, IRS, or DEA, these cases can involve complex forensic financial evidence and international components.

Legal Defenses Against Money Laundering

Just because you’ve been accused of money laundering does not mean you’re guilty. At Humphrey & Thompson, we carefully analyze every element of the case to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s argument and mount a strategic defense.

Common defenses include:

• Lack of Knowledge or Intent: Money laundering requires willful participation. If you were unaware that funds were the proceeds of illegal activity or lacked intent to conceal their source, you may have a viable defense.
• No Illegal Source of Funds: If the funds were legally obtained—even if they were transferred in unusual ways—then laundering charges should not apply.
• Entrapment or Government Misconduct: In cases involving undercover investigations or sting operations, we may be able to argue that you were improperly induced to commit an act you otherwise would not have.
• Illegal Search and Seizure: If law enforcement violated your constitutional rights while collecting evidence (such as banking records or electronic data), we can file motions to suppress that evidence from being used at trial.

Our goal is always to get charges reduced or dismissed and protect your future.

Money Laundering FAQs

Is money laundering always charged as a felony in California?

Not always. Under California Penal Code §186.10, money laundering can be charged as a wobbler, meaning it may be prosecuted as a misdemeanor or felony depending on the circumstances.

What are some examples of money laundering?

Common examples include:

• Structuring cash deposits to avoid bank reporting
• Using shell companies to hide income
• Transferring funds through foreign accounts
• Purchasing luxury items with illegal funds

Can I face both state and federal charges?

Yes. In some cases, both state and federal prosecutors may bring charges, especially if the alleged activity crosses state lines or involves a large financial operation.

What should I do if I’m being investigated?

Contact a Bakersfield money laundering attorney immediately. Avoid speaking with investigators without legal counsel. Anything you say can be used against you in court.

Contact a Bakersfield Money Laundering Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one is facing charges or under investigation for money laundering in Bakersfield, time is critical. The earlier you involve a knowledgeable defense attorney, the more options you have for protecting yourself.

Contact us today at to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward securing your future.